System and method for managing electronic transmission of color data

ABSTRACT

A system which enables electronic communication, coordination and dissemination of color-related designs, specifications and products. Color production and maintenance in a simultaneous fashion is provided between a plurality of disparate parties in substantially “real time.” The present integrated color-production is capable of importing electronic output from many diverse instruments, including color production-related hardware and software, and further uses the output to automatically deliver product data to and from a plurality of geographically disbursed parties. The present invention also provides an electronic library comprising colors and textures to be used for accurately matching a color sample and/or specification. The integrated, on-line color-related production system of the present invention enables parties to operate at peak efficiency, producing high sales and customer satisfaction.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a system and method for electronicallycommunicating, coordinating and disseminating product designs,specifications and production-related data between a plurality ofparties. More particularly, the invention relates to the coordination ofparties that create color and graphic designs, including manufacturers,designers, suppliers and printers for new or existing products.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The development of color-related products frequently involves acoordinated effort of assorted color product development specialists,such as manufacturers, designers, printers, ink manufacturers, dyemanufacturers, paint manufacturers and material suppliers. Demand forproducts and services provided by these businesses originates from manyindustries, including cosmetics, plastics, textiles and the foodindustry. A great deal of communication between the contributors to acolor product can be expensive and time burdensome. Frequently, thecommunication frequently comprises physically handling and delivery ofsamples for approval during the several developmental stages in theproduction chain.

During creation of color products, many samples are packaged anddelivered to many different parties for approval. For example, adesigner provides physical design samples to a manufacturing company forapproval, a plate separator converts digital and/or analog images into aform of printing plates or cylinders and submits proofs to a designer ormanufacturer, a formulator submits proofs to a printer, and a printersubmits samples to a designer and/or manufacturer for approval. Physicalmodels of the design and prospective future appearances are included inthe package.

In the event that any one sample is unacceptable, for example, becauseit varies from the original specifications, then a party relying on thesample usually insists upon revisions. Whenever revisions to a sampleare made, new samples typically are provided for additional review.

For example, a printer may require products and services from materialsuppliers, including ink manufacturers, dyers, separators and the like.Potentially expensive packages containing samples, prototypes anddocuments relating to each party's respective involvement aretransferred between the parties. Physical packages typically requireapproval in a particular sequence during development in the productionchain. Reliance upon a particular schedule increases the impact ofdelays caused by a lengthy sample creation and acceptance process.Moreover, samples that are rejected after several stages of developmenthave already been approved can result in changes that impact thosepreviously approved stages.

Electronic color production hardware and software systems currentlyexist which separately and independently perform many of the tasksrequired in the above-described production chain. For example, a knownsystem reads a visible spectrum of a color sample and generates datadirected to measured amounts of light absorbed or reflected atparticular points in the spectrum. Any given color has a spectral curveassociated with it that functions as a signature of the color. Once aspectral curve is determined, the visible spectrum and coefficients arethen processed to predict a color formula for reproducing the color.This measuring technique is more accurate than, for example, thecalorimetric approach to color representation because the colors willappear the same in any lighting environment.

The calorimetric representation is a numeric method (CIELAB) ofrepresenting a color, wherein “L” represents the lightness to darknessof a color, “A” represents the redness to greenness of a color and “B”represents the yellowness to blueness of a color. The values ofsimilarity between colors is determined by calculating the sum of thesquares of the differences between the L, A and B values. This method isnot as comprehensive as determining spectral curves for a color becausethe values are applicable for only one lighting condition. Differinglighting conditions can produce different shades of color, and thus anew set of CIELAB values.

Other common color representations exist, for example RGB represents thedegree of red, green and blue in a color. CMYK represents the degree ofcyan, magenta, yellow and black in a given color. Accurate translationbetween color representations, for example a translation from RGB toCMYK for computer monitors and computer printers is provided. Accuratecolor reproduction is achieved, in part, by retrieving data for aplurality of input and output devices, e.g., printers, monitors, andcolor measuring devices, and modifying the color translation formulas toaccount for the specific devices receiving the data.

Another known system provides a method and apparatus for accuratelymatching colors. For example, spectral data are received from a colormeasuring device and the corresponding color is matched in an electroniccolor library. The desired color is compared to colors stored in theelectronic color library and the color or colors in the library that arewithin a specified color range are reported. By searching in anelectronic library, the traditional standard color swatch book used forlocating a desired color is replaced. This electronic color library isvulnerable, however, to problems associated with reproducing samplesfrom multiple devices.

Another method involves receiving a communication of the designer'scomputer image and converting the RGB setting to CIELAB values. Computersoftware design packages such as ADOBE PHOTOSHOP and ADOBE PAGEMAKERprovide such conversion functionality.

The assemblage of mutually distinct and often disparate methods,samples, and goods as encountered in the current prior art canpotentially result in errors and delays in the process. Eachcommunication delay frustrates the color reproduction process and canresult in the associated parties trying to identify a party to be heldliable.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The foregoing illustrates the need for a system that enables electroniccommunication, coordination and dissemination of color-related designs,specifications and products between the parties identified above. Thepresent system enables color-related design and development in asimultaneous fashion between a plurality of disparate parties insubstantially “real time.” The data are formatted, evaluated, andfurther transmitted to a plurality of parties, thus providing improvedefficiency of color selection, approval and production.

Currently, no system is available which integrates the management ofdisparate methods of color product development into a seamless automatedsystem. The present integrated color-production system is capable ofreceiving electronic data regarding color products from diverse colorproduction-related hardware and software. The present invention isfurther capable of translating the data into a plurality of recognizableformats (e.g., RGB, CIELAB, CMYK and visual spectral data) and furtherenables accurate reproductions of color to be generated. Moreover, thepresent invention manages the delivery of data to a plurality ofgeographically dispersed parties.

In the present invention, accurate electronic images supplement numericdata transmissions in order to give non-technical participantsconfidence in the coloration process. The present invention alsoprovides an electronic library comprising colors and textures to be usedfor accurately matching a color sample and/or specification. Theelectronic library enables parties to transmit accurate proofs regardinga color specification. The integrated system of the present inventionfurther notifies parties when revisions to samples are required.

Moreover, the present system evaluates data regarding color productdesign and development, and, based upon the evaluation, directs controlof color product development. For example, a designer using the presentinvention may be notified that a particular design will cause excessivecosts or time delays.

The present invention is flexible in that parties are provided with datathat are particular to their involvement with the product. For example,a packaging designer may need to transmit specifications regardingdesign, color and source of ink to a printer. Concurrently, a packagingdesigner specifies design and color to a color products customer, e.g.,PROCTOR AND GAMBLE, or FRITO-LAY. A printer requests inks from an inksupplier, and the ink supplier orders materials from a materialssupplier. The integrated, on-line color-related production system of thepresent invention enables parties (e.g., manufacturers, cosmeticsmanufacturers, textile manufacturers, designers, separators, printers,ink manufacturers, etc.) to transmit data corresponding to theirrespective involvement, and further to operate at peak efficiency thusproducing high sales and customer satisfaction.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For the purpose of illustrating the invention, there is shown in thedrawings a form which is presently preferred, it being understood,however, that the invention is not limited to the precise arrangementsand instrumentalities shown. The features and advantages of the presentinvention will become apparent from the following description of theinvention that refers to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a diagram of an example hardware arrangement for a colormanagement system constructed in accordance with the principles of thepresent invention;

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the functional elements of site processorsand user terminals;

FIG. 3 illustrates the relationships between database tables used in anembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4 depicts the relationships between the pertinent parties;

FIG. 5 shows a flow chart identifying a control of the processesinvolved in the development of a color product;

FIG. 6 depicts a flow chart identifying the development of a colorproduct;

FIG. 7 illustrates an example of a display screen through which a usernavigates to perform processes on color samples;

FIG. 8 shows an example of a display screen through which a usernavigates to transmit color product-related data; and

FIG. 9 depicts an example of a display screen for searching in a colorlibrary for a color match.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

As used herein, the term “web site” refers to a related set of fileswhich are maintained in one or more “web server(s)” and which, whentransmitted to a user terminal, cause the user terminal to displayand/or execute programmatic operations corresponding to the datacontained in the files. Typically, the files comprising the web site areprepared using one or more of a combination of Hyptertext Mark-UpLanguage (HTML), Extendable Mark-Up Language (XML), Java Applets,ActiveX programs, Standard Generalized Mark-Up Language (SGML) files andthe like. Web site files are typically transmitted to the user terminalusing one or more protocol(s) such as the Hypertext Transfer Protocol(HTTP) under the Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol(TCP/IP) suite of communication protocols.

Also as used herein, the term “browser” refers to an application programresiding and executing on the user terminal which functions as an HTTPclient, sending requests to web servers for web site files. The requestis typically sent in the form of a Uniform Resource Locator (URL) or byselecting a hypertext link presented on the user terminal display. Thebrowser functions to receive a file and/or data from the web server andformat the received files and/or data in the manner described therein,displaying the same on the user terminal. Examples of browser programsinclude MICROSOFT INTERNET EXPLORER and NETSCAPE COMMUNICATOR.

Also as used herein, the term “visibly perceptible representation”refers to a perception of color as received by the human eye or otherdetecting device regardless of the medium for providing therepresentation, i.e., computer monitor, paper, printing press, etc.

As used herein, the term “link” refers to a selectable connection fromone or more word(s), picture(s) or other information object(s) to othersin which the selectable connection is presented within the web browser.The information object can include sound and/or motion video. Selectionis typically made by “clicking” on the link using an input device suchas a mouse, track ball and the like. Of course, one of ordinary skill inthe art will appreciate that any method by which an object presented onthe screen can be selected is sufficient.

Referring now to the drawings figures in which like reference numeralsrefer to like elements, there is shown in FIG. 1 a diagram of an examplecolor management system constructed in accordance with the principles ofthe present invention and designated generally as “Color ManagementSystem 2.” Color Management System 2 is preferably comprised of one ormore site processor(s) 4 coupled to one or more user terminal(s) 6across communication network 8.

Site processor 4 preferably includes all databases necessary to supportthe present invention. However, it is contemplated that site processor 4can access any required databases via communication network 8 or anyother communication network to which site processor 4 may be coupled. Ifseparate, site processor 4 can communicate with the database using anyknown communication method including a direct serial or parallelinterface, or via a local or wide area network.

User terminals 6 communicate with site processors 4 using dataconnections 9, which are respectively coupled to communication network8. Communication network 8 can be any communication network, but istypically the Internet or some other global computer network. Dataconnections 9 can be any known arrangement for accessing communicationnetwork 8 such as dial-up serial line interface protocol/point-to-pointprotocol (SLIP/PPP), integrated services digital network (ISDN),dedicated leased-line service, broadband (cable) access, frame relay,digital subscriber line (DSL), asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) or otheraccess techniques.

User terminals 6 have the ability to send and receive data acrosscommunication network 8, and are equipped with web browsers to displaythe received data on display devices incorporated therewith. By way ofexample, user terminals 6 may be personal computers such as IntelPentium-class computers or Apple Macintosh computers, but are notlimited to such computers. Other terminals which can communicate over aglobal computer network such as palmtop computers, personal digitalassistants (PDAs) and mass-marketed Internet access devices such asWebTV can be used. User terminals 6, further, take into accountassociated hardware, for example printers, monitors, scanners and thelike.

Also as used herein and for purposes of convenience, the term“workstation” refers to a user terminal 6, and, as appropriate incontext, further refers to a person operating user terminal 6.

Also as used herein, the terms “workstation characteristics” and “userterminal characteristics” refer to the functional elements of eachworkstation, including, but not limited to, central processing units,ROM, RAM, display devices, printing devices, network interfaces, diskdrives, floppy disk drives, tape drives, CD-ROM or DVD drives, databasesand application code and one or more input device(s), for examplekeyboard, mouse, track ball and the like.

In addition, the hardware arrangement of the present invention is notlimited to devices that are physically wired to communication network 8.It is contemplated that wireless devices using a wireless applicationprotocol (WAP) can inter-operate with site processors 4 using wirelessdata communication connections.

According to the present invention, user terminal 6 provides user accessto site processors 4 for the purpose of receiving and providingcolor-related product data. The specific functionality provided by ColorManagement System 2, and in particular site processors 4, is describedin detail below.

Color Management System 2 employs software that provides colorproduction and maintenance functionality. The software preferablyresides on one or more site processor(s) 4. One of the functionsperformed by site processor 4 is that of operating as a web server and aweb site host. Site processors 4 typically communicate withcommunication network 8 across a permanent i.e., unswitched, dataconnection. Permanent connectivity ensures that access to siteprocessors 4 is always available.

As shown in FIG. 2 the functional elements of each site processor 4preferably include one or more central processing unit(s) (CPU) 10 usedto execute software code in order to control the operation of siteprocessor 4, read only memory (ROM) 12, random access memory (RAM) 14,one or more network interface(s) 16 to transmit and receive data to andfrom other computing devices across a communication network, storagedevices 18 such as a hard disk drive, floppy disk drive, tape drive,CD-ROM or DVD drive for storing program code, databases and applicationcode, one or more input device(s) 20 such as a keyboard, mouse, trackball and the like, and a display 22.

The various components of site processor 4 need not be physicallycontained within the same chassis or even located in a single location.For example, as explained above with respect to databases which canreside on storage device 18, storage device 18 may be located at a sitewhich is remote from the remaining elements of site processors 4, andmay even be connected to CPU 10 across communication network 8 vianetwork interface 18.

The functional elements shown in FIG. 2 (designated by reference numbers12–22) are preferably the same categories of functional elementspreferably present in user terminal 6. However, not all elements need bepresent, for example, storage devices in the case of PDAs. Further, thecapacities of the various elements are arranged to accommodate theexpected user demand. For example, CPU 10 in user terminal 6 may be of asmaller capacity than CPU 10 as present in site processor 4. Similarly,it is likely that site processor 4 will include storage devices 18 of amuch higher capacity than storage devices 18 present in user terminal 6.Of course, one of ordinary skill in the art will understand that thecapacities of the functional elements can be adjusted as needed.

The nature of the present invention is such that one skilled in the artof writing computer executed code (software) can implement the describedfunctions using one or more of a combination of a popular computerprogramming language including but not limited to “C++”, Visual Basic,Java, ActiveX, XML, HTML, and other web application developmentenvironments, for example ALLAIRE'S COLD FUSION® and MICROSOFT'S FRONTPAGE®.

As used herein, references to displaying data on user terminal 6 relateto the process of communicating data to the user terminal acrosscommunication network 8 and processing the data such that the data canbe viewed on the terminal's display 22 using a web browser or the like.The display screens on terminals 6 present areas within Color ManagementSystem 2 such that a user can proceed from area to area within ColorManagement System 2 by selecting a desired link. Therefore, each user'sexperience with Color Management System 2 will be based on the orderwith which they progress through the display screens. In other words,because the system is not completely hierarchical in its arrangement ofdisplay screens, users can proceed from area to area without the need to“backtrack” through a series of display screens. For that reason, unlessstated otherwise, the following discussion is not intended to representany sequential operation steps, but rather the discussion of thecomponents of Color Management System 2.

Although the present invention is described by way of example herein interms of a web-based system using web browsers and a web site server(site processor 4), Color Management System 2 is not limited to thatparticular configuration. It is contemplated that Color ManagementSystem 2 can be arranged such that user terminal 6 can communicate with,and further send, receive and display data to and from site processor 4using any known communication and display method, for example, using anon-Internet viewer coupled with a local area network protocol such asthe Internetwork Packet Exchange (IPX). Any suitable operating systemcan be used on user terminal 6, for example, WINDOWS 3.x, WINDOWS 95,WINDOWS 98, WINDOWS CE, WINDOWS NT, LINUX and any suitable PDA or PALMcomputer operating system.

In a preferred embodiment, Color Management System 2 provides acomprehensive, yet easy to use, web site that enables users to transmitor receive data relating to development of one or more color product(s).Color product specialists, including customers, designers, separators,printers, converters and the like preferably interact with each other,and with Color Management System 2 itself, via one or more hardwareand/or software user interface(s). The user interfaces comprise displayscreen controls such as text input areas, drop down lists, buttons andscreen menus providing users with tools for adding, viewing, and editingdata.

Color product development specialists preferably transmit data regardinghardware devices to Color Management System 2. For example, the makesand models of monitors, printers, scanners and other color measuringdevices that are employed during the development of a color product aretransmitted to Color Management System 2. Color Management System 2preferably stores the device-related data for future reference in one ormore database(s) (see FIG. 3).

In a preferred embodiment, user terminal 6 receives data from a colormeasuring device 7, for example, a spectrocolorimeter. A data stream istransmitted which may be initially formatted in a variety ofdevice-related (“native”) configurations. For example, sequences of datavalues originating from some measuring devices 7 correspond to aninterval in which spectral reflectance curves are read. One particularcolor measuring device 7 may have a spectral reflectance curve datareading interval of 20 nm which produces a data sequence comprisingpatterns of 16 numbers. A different color measuring device 7 may have aninterval of 10 nm resulting in data formatted in sequences of 31numbers. The data are preferably received, formatted to a commonstandard, and processed notwithstanding their device-dependentqualities.

Continuing with the above example, user terminal 6 validates thereceived data, translates the data into distinct representations,performs data calculations (e.g., averaging and interpolating colordata), and further transmits data to other hardware and softwareapplications in a plurality of formats. Data are preferably transmitteddirectly to the receiving devices. Alternatively, the formatted data aretransmitted to site processor 4 and thereafter forwarded to therespective receiving hardware and software applications.

In another embodiment, user terminal 6 interfaces with a color measuringdevice 7 and receives spectral data, but does not perform any dataprocessing functions. User terminal 6 transmits the spectral data tosite processor 4 at substantially the same time when the data are beingreceived from the measuring device 7. Programmed data formattingroutines operate within site processor 4 and the data are furthertransmitted to hardware and software applications.

In yet another embodiment, a color measuring device 7 is not used duringdevelopment of a color product. Instead, a color sample is created orretrieved on a user terminal 6 with software provided by system. Forexample, a designer operating user terminal 6 creates a sample of color.The sample is transmitted to Color Management System 2 and developmentof the color product continues. In this embodiment, no color measuringdevice 7, other than the user terminal 6, is utilized by the respectiveparties.

Color Management System 2 promotes accuracy and uniformity bytranslating data regarding color that are received from color productspecialists into visual spectral data. As noted above, visual spectraldata accurately represent a color and are processed to predict a colorformula to reproduce a color. Data received, for example, from adesigner may require adjustment given subtle discrepancies in colorreadings between disparate color product development hardware devices.Furthermore, Color Management System 2 uses the device-related data totranslate data representing a color from one format (e.g., RGB, CMYK,CIE XYZ) into visual spectral data. The color data can thereafter betranslated into another device-dependent format for reception by othercolor product specialists.

For example, a designer submits a physical sample of color which isscanned by a scanning device, i.e., color measuring device 7. Thespecifications and software drivers for the particular color measuringdevice 7 are preferably stored in Color Management System 2 (seedatabase table 34 in FIG. 3). Color Management System 2 references thestored device-related data and adjusts the data received from the colormeasuring device 7 to accurately represent the desired color.

FIG. 3 illustrates the interaction of database tables in a preferredembodiment of the present invention. The tables are used by ColorManagement System 2 to store and manipulate data regarding developmentof color and color products. Users of Color Management System 2 arepreferably given access to the database tables and to the data therein.In a preferred embodiment, users are supplied with a pointer to thespecific database table and/or data therein rather than receiving thecomplete database tables or data at the user terminal 6.

As show in FIG. 3, color table 24 preferably contains records regardingthe creation a color. For example, spectral data regarding a specificcolor are stored in color table 24. Substrate table 26 stores dataregarding specific substrates and the relative impact of substrates oncolor. Resistance table 28 contains data regarding a color's ability toresist a plurality of elements, for example water, solvent, acid,alkali, temperature, humidity, abrasion, crocking, bending, light andultraviolet radiation. Color format table 30 preferably contains dataregarding the plurality of color representations (e.g., RGB, CMYK andCIE XYZ) used by the various devices in Color Management System 2.

Continuing now with FIG. 3, printing technique table 32 contains dataregarding a plurality of printing methods, for example offset printingand gravure printing. As noted above, different printing methods impactcosts and processes during development of a color product. ColorManagement System 2 preferably references hardware table 34 to evaluatethe costs and processes associated with a identified printing method.Hardware devices table 34 contains data regarding a plurality ofhardware devices involved in color product development, for examplemonitors, printers and scanners.

In a preferred embodiment, each of the records in database tables 26–34are related to a color record in color table 24. For example, a recordexists in color table 24 corresponding to a particular shade of blue.The substrate table 26 contains the types of substrates on which thatblue color cannot be used. Furthermore, printing techniques tablecontains the types of printing methods for which that color blue cannotbe used. The resistance table 26 contains associated records that relateto the ability of that blue color to resist the kinds of elementsdiscussed above with regard to resistance table 26. By relating recordsin a plurality of tables to one or more records in the color table 24,Color Management System 2 can evaluate color product design anddevelopment functions provided by users during development of a colorproduct.

Color Management System 2 preferably uses database tables, for examplethe tables identified in FIG. 3, to evaluate the compatibility of colorproduct development processes, and further to direct color productdevelopment processes.

Color Management System 2 further provides interfaces which serve tocontrol devices, for example to calibrate a color measuring device to acolor standard, during color product development without significantuser intervention. Color Management System 2 preferably references thestored device-related data to assist in automating the color productdevelopment process.

Furthermore, Color Management System 2 provides for accurate colorrepresentation and reproduction on the respective color productdevelopment devices. For example, Color Management System 2 compares acolor sample received by one color product development specialist withoutput received from a first printer, preferably by measuring thespectral curves of the color sample and the first printer's output.Color Management System 2 then determines whether any discrepancy existsbetween the original sample and the color that was thereafter output bythe printer. Color Management System 2 preferably adjusts the colorrepresentation values (e.g. CIELAB) in order for the first printer togenerate a more accurate color reproduction. Thereafter, a secondprinter preferably provides color output, and Color Management System 2repeats the process and adjusts and transmits, for example, CIELABvalues to the second printer. Color Management System 2 electronicallyadjusts color representations (e.g., RGB, CIELAB, CIE XYZ, and CMYK) forall of the respective input/output devices, thereby ensuring accuratecolor representation and reproduction.

As noted above, Color Management System 2 references device-related datain tables 24–34 to evaluate the compatibility of the processes involvedin development of a color product. It may be impossible, for example, touse a particular color on a specific substrate using a specific printingmethod because the substrate cannot support the quantity of ink requiredto produce the color. Color Management System 2 preferably evaluatesprocesses involved before and during development of a color product,and, based on its evaluations, takes appropriate action. In a preferredembodiment, Color Management System 2 prevents a designer fromcontinuing in the color product design process upon discoveringincompatible developmental processes. For example, if a designer choosesthe combination of the particular color, specific substrate and specificprinting method described above, Color Management System 2 alerts thedesigner of the incompatibilities of the choices. In this example, thedesigner is required to change one or more element(s) of her designbefore Color Management System 2 will allow her to proceed. In analternative example, Color Management System 2 provides correspondingwarnings to the designer via the user interfaces, but does not halt thecolor product design process.

A detailed description of the parties to Color Management System 2 andtheir respective functions is now discussed with reference to FIG. 4.

In accordance with the principles of the present invention, ColorManagement System 2 preferably receives color product data from aplurality of sources, including color measuring devices and userterminals 6. As noted above, Color Management System 2 preferablyevaluates development processes associated with a design of a colorproduct to ensure compatibility among the processes.

During color product development, Color Management System 2 preferablycontinues its control over the development process, for example byhalting production, or by notifying the color product specialists ofpotential problems, discrepancies and/or limitations with a productdesign or production method. For example, a color products customer 36hires a designer 38 to design a brochure. After designer 38 identifies aparticular substrate for the brochure, e.g., paper, Color ManagementSystem 2 identifies specific printing or engraving techniques that areeffective or otherwise problematic, less or more expensive, etc.Furthermore, Color Management System 2 identifies particular specialistscapable of providing the required development services for a colorproduct. Preferably, Color Management System 2 evaluates and controlsthe development process, for example by suggesting methods, restrictingdevelopment choices and the like, until development of the color productis complete.

During development of a color product, a color standard is preferablyreceived by Color Management System 2 and a search is performed in anelectronic color library for a desired color match. The color library ispreferably stored on site processor 4 and the desired color data, forexample, spectral data, are compared with a set of previously storedcolor data in the library. Color Management System 2 preferably selectsat least one color that best matches the desired color. The searchresults are preferably formatted in a plurality of ways, for example,specific PANTONE® numbers, CIE XYZ values, CMYK values, and a pluralityof color bases.

In addition to matching a color, Color Management System 2 provides aretrieval mechanism for color searches based upon criteria includingrestrictive filters. For example, by including filter criteria andqueries to match color samples, color criteria can be combined withother qualities, e.g., substrates, bases, resistance to water, acids,solvents and the like. Some bases, for example, are not suitable withstrong solvents or detergents that may be used for outdoor or food use.

When acceptable matches are retrieved and, if necessary, adjusted foraccuracy, data are transmitted to parties, for example, color productscustomers 36 (FIG. 4) and/or designers 38 for approval or ordering. Thedata that are received by approving parties preferably comprise colorcomparisons and differences, for example, CIELAB, CMC and CIE94 asopposed to spectral data. These terms represent color differences orcolor tolerances in the CIELAB to approximate uniform color space. In analternative embodiment however, spectral data are formatted in astandardized way and transmitted to the respective parties for approvaland/or ordering.

Other data are preferably transmitted with the color approval data, forexample sales and formula codes, color formulas, costs or priceinformation, various illuminants and metamerisms. Data are preferablyprovided to the user in a plurality of languages, e.g., English, French,Spanish, German and Italian to account for international recognition ofthe data. Furthermore, a sample of several color matches includingvisible image files and spectral data are preferably provided forcomparison and approval. Data entry forms are also preferably availablefor users of Color Management System 2 to enter and edit data. Forexample, a user can enter and/or edit color, resistance, and cost orprice data using data entry forms.

As Color Management System 2 maintains proprietary data for its users,access to Color Management System 2 is preferably restricted by means bya plurality of methods, for example by registering users and restrictingtheir access with appropriate user names and passwords.

The parties to Color Management System 2 typically comprise a pluralityof color product development specialists. Some combination thereof, forexample a color products customer 36 and a designer 38, may be employedby one entity. Due to the many possible combinations of businesses andusers of Color Management System 2, FIG. 4 depicts the parties in termsof a plurality of workstations employed by these parties.

As noted above, a plurality of parties interface with Color ManagementSystem 2 during the creation of a color product. Color productscustomers 36, either independently or with designers 38, provide colorproduct specifications or color product samples to a separator 46. Theseparator 46 generates at least one proof for the color productscustomer 36 and/or designer 38 who either approve or reject theproof(s). The separator 46 further provides proofs and color data to aprinter 42 who produces the final color product. Printers 42 typicallycontract with ink manufacturers 44, who may further work withformulators 40 and raw materials suppliers during the printing process.

The demand for color products and services originates from many types ofbusinesses and non-business parties that have needs for colorproduction. For example, consumer product manufacturing, advertising,promotional material, and interior and exterior design companies requirecolor-related services. Color products customers 36 specify colorrequirements for packaging products, for example food packaging. Colorproducts customers 36 further provide details including package designparameters, colors, substrates and print processes to one or moreparties. Color Management System 2 allows the associated color productdevelopment specialists to communicate substantially simultaneously.

For example, a designer 38 receives transmitted specifications from oneor more color products customer(s) 36 and thereafter a designer 38creates a product design. Designer 38 distributes color-product designspecifications including, for example, associated substrates and inksto, for example, color products customer 36 and separator 46.

Color products customers 36 frequently contract with separators 46 forcreation of film or digital proofs of the product for review andapproval. A color match is first electronically “proofed” by printingthe inks onto the associated substrates using laboratory-scale equipmentbefore being taken to a production line. However, the laboratory-scalebatch of proofs may not always match the color of the commercialproduction run.

In plastics manufacturing, for example, the production size batch maynot develop the exact same color as the laboratory-scale batch. Toovercome this problem, users provide details regarding the end productin the electronic color library and the present invention provides acoordination of methods to adjust the laboratory-scale batch to aproduction-scale batch before the production batch is processed.

The proof is thereafter electronically transmitted to a party forapproval. Once the proof is approved, a formulator 40 determines a colorformula, for example, by referencing color table 24 to identify pigmentsassociated with the specified color in order to match the measuredcharacteristics thereof.

The separator 46 further provides formatted color data toprinter/converter 42. Separator 46 preferably presents color proofs tocolor products customers 36 for approval, and further transmits printingrelated information to printers/converters 42 for production.

Many other communications between the contributing parties to thedevelopment of a color product occur. For example, printers/converters42 contract with ink manufacturers 44 for production of ink. Formulators40 calculate appropriate color formulas that define appropriate colorweights and combinations of pigment for creation of a specific color,for example by referencing data in color table 24. Ink manufacturers 44further communicate with raw material suppliers, dyers, separators,plate makers, cylindrical engravers and the like, for materialsaccording to specific parameters. As noted above, the prior art methodof communicating this information is costly and timeconsuming.

According to the principles of the present invention, Color ManagementSystem 2 evaluates the respective parties' contributions to developmentof a color product prior to, and during, the development of the colorproduct. Color Management System 2 preferably evaluates, for example,the desired color of the product, the desired substrate that the colorwill be used on and the desired printing method for the product. Byevaluating the color product prior to and during the respective parties'involvement with the development of the product, the time and capitalcosts are greatly reduced.

For example, a designer 38 desires to place a specific color (e.g., navyblue) on a specific substrate (e.g., newspaper) using a specificprinting process (e.g., gravure printing). After evaluating the desiredcolor, substrate and printing technique, Color Management System 2notifies the designer 38 that the chosen substrate (e.g., newspaper) isunable to support the desired color and printing technique. ColorManagement System 2 accordingly prompts the designer 38 to change someof her design. The designer 38 decides to change the substrate to athick, corrugated cardboard, and Color Management System 2 evaluates themodified design. In this example, Color Management System 2 preventedthe associated parties to development of the desired color product frominvesting time, materials and capital by determining the combined color,substrate and printing technique were incompatible.

Other embodiments of the present invention are available with regard tothe way a user interfaces with Color Management System 2. For example,once the designer 38 selects the desired color (e.g., navy blue), ColorManagement System 2 presents available substrates that can support thecolor. Moreover, after the designer 38 selects a substrate, ColorManagement System 2 presents available printing techniques that canproduce the desired color product. In an alternative embodiment, ColorManagement System 2 provides many choices to the designer 38 at theoutset of the color product design, and as the designer 38 makesselections (e.g., navy blue on a particular substrate), the number ofavailable design choices is reduced accordingly.

The availability of design function choices presented by ColorManagement System 2 correspond with the color product characteristicsselected by the operator of Color Management System 2. While the aboveexamples illustrate the availability of color product design options fora designer 38, the system is not so limited. During each stage ofdevelopment of a color product, e.g., cylinder engraving, separating,ink manufacturing, printing, etc., options are preferably made availableby Color Management System 2 which correspond with selections made bythe respective parties. By preventing the selection of choices which areincompatible with a color product, Color Management System 2 preventsvaluable resources such as time, money and materials from being wastedand further provides for increased efficiency during the development ofa color product.

In addition to preventing resources from being wasted during the colorproduct development process, Color Management System 2 preferablyenables contributing parties to a color product to transmit to eachother electronic samples for approval. For example, Color ManagementSystem 2 preferably generates visibly perceptible representations of thedesired color. After a respective party submits additional detailsregarding the color product, such as a desired substrate, ColorManagement System 2 generates a visibly perceptible representation basedupon the desired color and desired substrate. Color Management System 2preferably uses the data received by the contributing parties togenerate visibly perceptible representations of materials used duringthe creation of the color product, such as a specific ink, and furtherto generate images of the color product itself.

Other material supply specifications include details such as color,Theological properties, product resistance, and residual chemicalrequirements. Completed ink samples are transmitted to aprinter/converter 42 and are further delivered to several parties,including color products customer 36, designer 38 and/or formulator 40for approval.

During the process of ink creation, the printer/converter 42 mayelectronically order revisions based on the samples he receives.Alternatively, the printer/converter 42 performs modifications, forexample, by electronically determining and changing the strength andshade of an ink in order to meet a color standard under the conditionsof a final press run. The printer/converter 42 transmits an electroniccolor sample from a press run to a color products customer 36 ordesigner 38 for review.

An example of the color management process including the interactionbetween the modules is now described with reference to the flow chartsas shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. 6, with reference to the parties depicted inFIG. 4. This example represents one possible sequence of events in theproduction chain that depends, in part, upon the desired, finishedproduct. The following example refers to a cereal manufacturer 36 thatrequires a new cereal box to be produced. The cereal manufacturer 36contracts with a designer 38 for a new design of the new cereal box.

As shown in FIG. 5, designer 38 designs a new cereal box. The colors ofthe box are electronically specified in Color Management System 2 (stepS100). Thereafter, Color Management System 2 evaluates the colors anddetermines whether restrictions exist for the given color (step S102).For example, the specified color may not be available in a high glossfinish.

If Color Management System 2 determines that restrictions exist, such asthe available finish, then Color Management System 2 preferably notifiesthe designer 38 of the restrictions (step S104). Color Management System2 preferably determines whether the designer can proceed with thecurrent design options or if the choices selected by the designer 38 aresuch that the product cannot be developed (step S106). If ColorManagement System 2 determines that the product cannot be developedgiven the selections the designer 38 made, the production is halteduntil the designer 38 modifies the design (step S108). In the event thedesigner 38 elects not to modify the design, then development ends (stepS130).

Continuing with the flowchart shown in FIG. 5, after Color ManagementSystem 2 determines that the designer 38 is not required to modify theexisting design, or in the alternative the designer 38 modifies theexisting design, then the process continues to step S110 wherein thedesigner 38 identifies the desired substrate the color will be placedon. Color Management System 2 thereafter determines whether thespecified substrate is compatible with the selected color (step S112).In the particular embodiment described in this example, the designer 38is making design choices. Color Management System 2, though, is suchthat any or all of the parties contributing to the development of acolor product (e.g., color products customer 36, formulator 40, printer42, etc.) can make and enter product design and development choices intoColor Management System 2.

If Color Management System 2 determines that the current substrateselection and color selection are incompatible, then the user isappropriately notified (step S114). Color Management System 2 preferablydetermines whether the designer can proceed with the current designoptions or if the choices selected by the designer 38 are such that theproduct cannot be developed (step S116). If Color Management System 2determines that the product cannot be developed given the selections thedesigner 38 made, the production is halted until the designer 38modifies the design (step S118). If the designer 38 elects not to modifythe design, development of the color product ends (step S130).

After Color Management System 2 determines that the designer 38 is notrequired to modify the existing color and/or substrate selections, or inthe alternative the designer 38 modifies the existing design, then theprocess continues to step S120 wherein the designer 38 identifies thedesired printing method for the color product. Color Management System 2thereafter determines whether the specified printing method iscompatible with the selected color and selected substrate (step S122).

If Color Management System 2 determines that the current color,substrate and printing method selections are incompatible, then the useris appropriately notified (step S124). Thereafter, Color ManagementSystem 2 determines whether the choices selected by the designer 38 aresuch that the product cannot be developed (step S126). If ColorManagement System 2 determines that the product cannot be developedgiven the selections the designer 38 made, the production is halteduntil the designer 38 modifies the design (step S128). If the designer38 elects not to modify the design, development of the color productends (step S130). Otherwise, development of the color product continues(step S132). After the contributing parties to development of a colorproduct approve samples during the development process, the colorproduct is complete and delivered (step S134).

FIG. 6 shows a flowchart associated with the physical development ofcolor products which runs concurrently with the flowchart described inFIG. 5. At the outset, designer 38 designs a new cereal box. The colorsof the box are electronically specified and measured (step S200). Userterminal 6 (FIG. 1) preferably generates or receives a data streamcontaining spectral data. In step S202, the spectral data are formattedand entered into an electronic color palette application. The colors foruse on the new box are selected from a palette of real, obtainablecolors. A search is performed for close color or spectral matches. Whena color match is returned for review, the designer 38 and/or the cerealmanufacturing 36 determines whether the match is acceptable for a finalpress run (step S204). If the match is of an acceptable quality, thenspectral data and viewable electronic images are transmitted to aprinter/converter 42 for review and/or production (step S218).

If the match from the electronic color palette is not satisfactory tothe designer 38 and/or cereal manufacturer 36, then the designer 38electronically transmits spectral data, properly formatted if necessary,to a separator 46 for filtering and proofing (step S206). The separator46 sets filtering and plate technology to produce a final color (stepS208). Corrections may be made for converting processes that may berequired, such as to account for lamination (step S208). When theseparator 46 achieves a desired match, the printing plates are madeand/or cylinders are engraved for sample proofs (step S210).

The proof is thereafter measured and compared to the original electronicsample received from the designer 38 (step S212). At step S214, adetermination is made whether the proof is of an acceptable match.Preferably, the designer 38 or cereal manufacturer 36 makes thisdetermination. If there is not an acceptable match, furthercombinatorial corrections are made (step S216) and the process returnsto step S210 for a repeat of the proofing process.

If the designer 38 or the cereal manufacturer 36 decides that the proofsubmitted by the separator 46 is acceptable, visible electronic imagefiles and spectral data corresponding to the proof are transmitted tomultiple parties for review and continued development in the productionchain (step S218). For example, an image file, e.g., a TIFF file, istransmitted to the cereal manufacturer 36, and color difference data,e.g., CIELAB data, are transmitted to the printer/converter 42. Theprinter/converter 42 evaluates the sample (step S220). If the sample isrejected, then the printer/converter 42 directs the separator 46 tooutput another sample proof (step S210). If the sample proof isaccepted, then corresponding cylinders are engraved and plates are made(step S215), and the printer/converter 42, via Color Management System2, orders ink (step S222).

The ink is thereafter created according to specifications furnished bythe printer/converter 42 and the samples received from the separator 46(step S224). Following the creation of the ink, an electronic sample ofthe ink, including spectral data and a visible electronic image file,are sent to the printer/converter 42 for approval (step S226). Thepurpose of the image file is to illustrate the differences between alarge area, an isolated ink proof, and the same color ink printed in acomplex image surrounded by other colors. When the printer/converter 42has received the electronic image file and corresponding spectral data,the printer/converter determines whether the samples are accuratelymatched (step S228). If the sample is not approved, the process returnsto step S236 for appropriate revisions to the information regarding theink.

Once the ink sample is approved, then the formula is output from aformulator 40, a sample is generated from the formula, and furtherweighed and proofed (step S229). Additionally, in-progress printedmaterials may be delivered for comparison and review (step S230). Forexample, materials are delivered in step S242 for visual inspection andapproval. Further, data are transmitted to the cereal manufacturer 36which shows respective progress in the production chain (step S232). Asmaterials are provided, additional approval may be required of thedesigner 38, cereal manufacturer 36 or both.

Nearly all of the foregoing steps describing Color Management System 2involve the use of electronic transmissions. The cereal manufacturing 36transmits product specifications and receives data-updates as theproduct is developed. The designer 38 and printer/converter 42 transmitspecifications and receive data from the separator 46 and inkmanufacturer 44 during the process.

Color Management System 2 preferably accepts output from a plurality ofinstruments and software types without significant user intervention.Color Management System 2 compensates for differences in hardware andsoftware making the operation transparent to the user. Further, userscan electronically order materials, e.g., ink based on electronicpalette searches and/or accepted combinatorial color matches.

Color Management System 2 preferably provides printers/converters 42with electronic specimens containing information regarding a conversionprocess, such as lamination, back printing, printing over foil, printingover coatings and the like. Color Management System 2 provides for morethan creation of a correct color, the correction/maintenance of colorcan be performed substantially in “real time” and results in feedbackthat can be instantaneously transmitted to appropriate parties.

Additional functionality provided by Color Management System 2 is nowdescribed by way of an additional example.

A designer 38 creates a computer-aided design (CAD) drawing of officespace and selects standard color furnishings and carpeting. The desiredcolor of paint is selected by designer 38 from electronic displays formatching or contrasting furnishings. Color can be selected from anelectronic palette of available paint colors and added to the CADdrawing. The designer 38 may opt to create a new color by manuallymaking adjustments in Color Management System 2.

After submitting the desired color to Color Management System 2, thedesigner 38 is notified by Color Management System 2 that certainrestrictions apply to the color the designer 38 selected. For example,the color may be available from only one known supplier, or the colormay not be available in a high gloss finish. The notification processcan comprise many forms; those skilled in the art will recognize thatnotification methods can assume many forms, for example by disablingfunctions, sending visual or audio messages to the display screen orspeakers, respectively, etc. The designer 38 may be required to modifyher design as more details regarding the desired color product areprovided to Color Management System 2.

Continuing with the foregoing example, The desired color iselectronically transmitted to a formulator. The formulator generates acolor formula and transmits the formula to a paint supplier. By usingColor Management System 2 via user terminal 6, the pigment dispensingdevices operated by the paint supplier use the formulas received by theformulator to dispense appropriate pigment. The paint supplierthereafter produces a sample of the paint.

After a paint sample has been produced and calorimetrically measured,the local paint supplier sends an image file, e.g., a TIFF file, to theprinter/converter, for visual confirmation of the desired color. It ispreferred that the image file contains references to the spectral datarather then device dependent RGB settings. Further, spectral data of thepaint sample are also transmitted for electronic comparison of thesample. Other parties, including color products customer 36, can receiveimage files and/or spectral data regarding color samples from localpaint suppliers. The printer/converter 42 and/or color products customer36 may direct the local paint supplier to make appropriate adjustmentsto the color sample until an acceptable match is provided.

Additional functionality provided by Color Management System 2 is nowfurther described by way of yet an additional example.

A designer 38 creates a CAD drawing of a garment and selects standardcolors. The desired color of the cloth is selected by the designer 38 byusing display screens in Color Management System 2 to match or contrastthe previous season's trend colors.

Color can be selected from an electronic palette of available clothcolors and added to the CAD drawing. The designer 38 may opt to create anew color by making manual adjustment in Color Management System 2.Formatted spectral data are transmitted electronically to a localgarment supplier. Using Color Management System 2, the garment supplierprovides an image file for visual confirmation of the desired color.Additionally, numeric spectral data are transmitted to a textile dyer.

If the desired color is retrieved from the electronic palette, theformula is immediately retrieved from the database and a sample dye isproduced. If a new color is to be created, the closest palette color isretrieved and a correction to the formula is performed bycolor-correcting software and a test dye is produced. The dyer readsspectral data of the test dye's color to verify that it matches thedesired color, and further electronically communicates a visibleelectronic image file and spectral data to the garment maker anddesigner. The designer 38 approves the match or may request adjustments.

Essentially the same operational phases take place in Color ManagementSystem 2 whether the need is for a building interior, a garment, aretail consumer product or a piece of graphic art. There is aninter-change of production or pre-production prototypes between themanufacturers, formulators, designers and printers that areelectronically transmitted for approval and acceptance.

The present invention goes beyond merely substituting spectral data forphysical samples. Physical samples are characterized and stored in anelectronic library to which all parties have access. A common basis forcomparison and communication is provided without the need for thephysical proofing and examination.

The services provided by Color Management System 2 are preferablyarranged as a web site from which the user selects choices andfunctions. Initially, a user accesses the web site provided by siteprocessor 4 by entering a URL corresponding to the network address ofthe web site. Upon accessing the web site and providing appropriatesecurity data (e.g., user name and password), the user is presented withoptions for executing many of the processes described above. The website is preferably designed to provide users with display screensappropriate to their respective security clearance. For example,designers and color products customers will have access to a colorlibrary and design display software, and printers will have access toformula data.

FIG. 7 shows a Sample Color Processing display screen 48 in colormanagement 2. The display screens in Color Management System 2,substantially as shown in FIG. 7, are preferably comprised of one ormore graphic control(s) including, but not limited to, title bars,labels, text input areas, check boxes, radio and push buttons. Ofcourse, other design layouts can be fashioned using other types ofgraphic display controls known to those skilled in the art.

The example display screen shown in FIG. 7 enables the import of colorsamples, and electronically performs additional automatic processes onthe samples. Color process section 50, for example, enables a user toselect a series of processes, including data importing, palettesearching and color matching. Once the user completes her processselections, she can invoke the selections by clicking on ProcessSelections button 52. When the processes are running, the Current Statustext area 54 displays short messages to inform the user of the statusesof the selected processes.

Other controls are available, including the View Current Sample button56 which enables a user to review a current work sample, theApprove/Reject button 58 enabling transmission of acceptances andrejections of samples, and the Order/Purchase button 60 enablingordering of materials (e.g., inks) via Color Management System 2.

FIG. 8 shows an example Sample Transmission and Communication displayscreen 62 for enabling a user of Color Management System 2 tosimultaneously transmit samples and other communications to a pluralityof parties. The user preferably clicks Retrieve Previous Sample button64 to automatically retrieve material or color samples available in siteprocessor 4. The user also preferably views a sample by pressing ViewSample button 66.

Sample Transmission and Communication display screen 62 enables a user,during various stages in the production chain, to select parties whomthe user desires to receive samples. In the example shown in FIG. 8, theSmith Company, BA Company, Attentive Company, Innovative Company andLegends Company are selected by the user by placing checkmarks adjacentto their names in corresponding listboxes 72. Furthermore, Recipientslist 68 displays the parties who are selected for a sample transmission.When the user is satisfied with the parties for transmission, shepreferably presses Transmit Button 70 to cause an electronic transfer ofdata regarding a current sample. The transmitted sample is evaluated bythe appropriate party, or parties, for approval during development ofthe color product.

The Sample Color Processing display 48 and Sample Transmission andCommunication display screen 62, substantially as shown in FIGS. 7 and8, illustrate automated uses of Color Management System 2. Users canimport color samples, search palettes for color matching purposes,convert samples for different textures, and transmit samples to aplurality of parties simultaneously.

FIG. 9 shows an example search screen for enabling a user of ColorManagement System 2 to perform a query for matching a specific color.Included in the example screen are the aperture, the model of the colormeasuring device 7, a UV filter, an observer and illuminate. Further,color equations, ink ranges and printed processes are provided in orderto calibrate and measure a specific color.

It is noted that while the present invention is described in terms ofcolor-related products, the invention is not so limited. The inventioncan be easily modified to provide on-line, real-time transmissions for avariety of industries and applications in which there is a requirementthat disparate users be able to enter and receive product datasimultaneously. For example, computer software and hardwaremanufacturers can use the present invention to coordinate programmingand production efforts during product development.

The present invention advantageously provides a comprehensivenetwork-based facility that allows a variety of participants in theproduction chain to communicate color product data and production runissues with each other using a simple web browser interface. A pluralityof users receive the same communications firsthand and substantiallyinstantaneously. Additionally, a virtually unlimited number of users canlog in and enter, monitor or resolve the types of color-related issuesdiscussed herein limited only by the capacities of communication network8 and site processor 4.

Users of the system can enter their own requests independently and datacommunications are triggered automatically without the need forsystem-provider personnel intervention. The invention therefore allowsmanufacturers, designers and printers to operate at peak efficiency,producing a high commercial gain, high customer satisfaction and asuccessful return on investment.

Although the present invention has been described in relation toparticular embodiments thereof, many other variations and modificationsand other uses will become apparent to those skilled in the art. It ispreferred, therefore, that the present invention be limited not by thespecific disclosure herein, but only by the appended claims.

1. A method for using a database to develop a color product, said methodcomprising: storing development information in said database, saiddevelopment information including characteristics related to developmentof a plurality of color products; receiving first color information,said first color information including at least a first color;identifying first development information in said database, said firstdevelopment information including at least said first color; receivingat least one physical characteristic of said color product; and usingsaid first development information to determine whether said at leastone physical characteristic is compatible with said first color, wherebydevelopment of the color product is either: (a) halted if a physicalcharacteristic is not compatible with said first color, or a warning isissued via a user interface if a physical characteristic is notcompatible with said first color.
 2. The method of claim 1, furthercomprising communicating said first development information between atleast two color product development specialists.
 3. The method of claim2, wherein said step of communicating said first development informationcomprises communicating a pointer to said development information. 4.The method of claim 1, wherein said received first color information isin a first format.
 5. The method of claim 1, wherein at least one ofsaid characteristics is a color characteristic.
 6. The method of claim5, wherein said step of storing said development information furtherincludes storing said color characteristic in a plurality of formats. 7.The method of claim 6, wherein said plurality of formats comprise atleast one of visual spectral data, CIEXYZ, CIELAB, CIELUV, CIEUVW, colorspace, chromaticity coordinates xy, u′v′ and uv, computer graphicstriplets including RGB, CMYK, HLS, HIS, HSV and HVC, Munsell notation,Swedish Natural Color System notation, ColorCurve notation, RALnotation, Pantone color number, DIC color number, Color Marketing Groupcolor name, and Color Association of the United States color name. 8.The method of claim 1, further comprising translating said first colorinformation from a first format to a second format.
 9. The method ofclaim 8, further comprising: communicating said first developmentinformation between at least two color product development specialists;communicating said first development information to at least one of saidat least two color product development specialists in a third format inresponse to at least one characteristic corresponding to at least one ofsaid at least two color product development specialists; and whereinsaid characteristic is a characteristic of a device used by at least oneof said at least two color product development specialists to generate avisibly perceptible representation of said first color.
 10. The methodof claim 9, wherein said third format is said first format.
 11. Themethod of claim 1, further comprising generating a visibly perceptiblerepresentation of said first color in response to said first colorinformation.
 12. The method of claim 1, wherein said characteristicsinclude processes for incorporating a plurality of colors on saidplurality of color products.
 13. The method of claim 1, wherein saidcharacteristics include at least one substrate characteristic used insaid at least one color product.
 14. The method of claim 1, wherein saidcharacteristics include an ability of said color product to resist atleast one of water, solvent, acid, alkali, temperature, humidity,abrasion, crocking, bending, light, and ultraviolet radiation.
 15. Themethod of claim 14, further comprising generating a visibly perceptiblerepresentation of said first color in response to said at least onesubstrate characteristic.
 16. The method of claim 1, further comprisingprinting said color product using said first color.
 17. The method ofclaim 16, wherein said printing step comprises at least one offlexographic printing, offset printing, and gravure printing methods.18. The method of claim 1, wherein said receiving step comprises using acolor measuring device.
 19. The method of claim 18, wherein said colormeasuring device is a spectrocolorimeter.
 20. The method of claim 1,further comprising selecting said first color information from aplurality of retrievable samples located in at least one electroniccolor library.
 21. The method of claim 20, wherein said at least oneelectronic color library is set forth on at least one site processor.22. The method of claim 1, further comprising communicating said firstcolor information using a global communication network.
 23. The methodof claim 22, wherein said global communication network is the Internet.24. The method of claim 1, further comprising communicating said firstcolor information using a direct dial-up connection.
 25. The method ofclaim 1, further comprising providing access to said database to atleast two color product development specialists.
 26. The method of claim25, wherein said at least two color product specialists include at leastone of a customer, a designer, a color separator, a printer, an inkmanufacturer, a customer, a formulation chemist, a color compounder, aplastics molder, a pigment manufacturer, a dye manufacturer, a dyer, aretailer, a garment designer, a textile designer, an architecturaldesigner, an interior designer, a painting contractor, and a paintsupplier.
 27. The method of claim 25, wherein said database comprisesdata entry display screens enabling said at least two color productdevelopment specialists to enter their respective contributions to saiddevelopment of said color product.
 28. The method of claim 27, whereinsaid contributions relate to a development function performed by said atleast two color product development specialists.
 29. The method of claim28, further comprising providing choices in said data entry displayscreens to said color product development specialists in response tosaid compatibility of said at least one physical characteristic withsaid first color.
 30. The method of claim 29, further comprisingrevising said color product development in response to saidcompatibility of said at least one physical characteristic with saidfirst color.
 31. The method of claim 28, further comprising providingchoices in said data entry display screens to said color productdevelopment specialists in response to said respective contributions tosaid development of said color product.
 32. The method of claim 31,further comprising stopping said color product development in responseto said respective contributions to said development of said colorproduct.
 33. The method of claim 32, further comprising revising saidcolor product development in response to said respective contributionsto said development of said color product.
 34. A method of coordinatingdevelopment of a color product, said method comprising: storingdevelopment information in at least one database set forth on at leastone site processor, said development information includingcharacteristics related to development of a plurality of color products,said development information including processes for incorporating aplurality of colors on said plurality of color products; receiving firstcolor information from a first color product development specialist,said first color information including at least a first color;identifying first development information in said at least one database,said first development information including at least said first color;receiving at least one physical characteristic of said first colorproduct; communicating said development information using a globalcommunication network between at least two color product developmentspecialists; and using said first development information to determinewhether said at least one physical characteristic is compatible withsaid first color, whereby development of the color product is either:(a) halted if a physical characteristic is not compatible with saidfirst color, or a warning is issued via a user interface if a physicalcharacteristic is not compatible with said first color.
 35. The methodof claim 34, wherein at least one of said characteristics is a colorcharacteristic.
 36. The method of claim 35, wherein said step of storingsaid development information further includes storing said colorcharacteristic in a plurality of formats.
 37. The method of claim 36,wherein said plurality of formats comprise at least one of visualspectral data, CIEXYZ, CIELAB, CIELUV, CIEUVW, color space, chromaticitycoordinates xy, u′v′ and uv, computer graphics triplets including RGB,CMYK, HLS, HIS, HSV and HVC, Munsell notation, Swedish Natural ColorSystem notation, ColorCurve notation, PAL notation, Pantone colornumber, DIC color number, Color Marketing Group color name, and ColorAssociation of the United States color name.
 38. The method of claim 34,wherein said identifying step comprises translating said first colorinformation from a first format to a second format.
 39. The method ofclaim 38, further comprising communicating said first developmentinformation to a second color product development specialist in a thirdformat in response to at least one characteristic corresponding to saidsecond color product development specialist.
 40. The method of claim 39,wherein said third format is said first format.
 41. The method of claim34, further comprising generating a visibly perceptible representationof said first color in response to said first color information.
 42. Themethod of claim 34, further comprising generating a visibly perceptiblerepresentation of said first color product in response to said at leastone physical characteristic.
 43. The method of claim 34, furthercomprising providing access to said at least one database to said atleast two color product developers.
 44. The method of claim 43, whereinsaid database comprises data entry display screens enabling said atleast two color product development specialists to enter respectivecontributions to said development of said color product.
 45. The methodof claim 44, further comprising providing choices in said data entrydisplay screens to said color product development specialists inresponse to said compatibility of at least one physical characteristicwith said first color.
 46. The method of claim 44, further comprisingproviding choices in said data entry display screens to said colorproduct development specialists in response to said respectivecontributions to said development of said color product.
 47. The methodof claim 34, wherein said at least two color product specialists includeat least one of a customer, a designer, a color separator, a printer, anink manufacturer, a customer, a formulation chemist, a color compounder,a plastics molder, a pigment manufacturer, a dye manufacturer, a dyer, aretailer, a garment designer, a textile designer, an architecturaldesigner, an interior designer, a painting contractor, and a paintsupplier.
 48. The method of claim 34, said receiving step furthercomprising using a color measuring device.
 49. The method of claim 48,wherein said color measuring device is a spectrocolorimeter.
 50. Themethod of claim 34, wherein said global communication network is theInternet.
 51. The method of claim 34, further comprising electronicallycommunicating said first color information using a direct dial-upconnection.
 52. A system to develop a color product, said systemcomprising: a database storing development information, said developmentinformation including characteristics related to development of aplurality of color products; a first software facility receiving firstcolor information, said first color information including at least afirst color; a second software facility identifying first developmentinformation in said database, said first development informationincluding at least said first color; a third software facility receivingat least one physical characteristic of said color product; and a fourthsoftware facility using said first development information to determinewhether said at least one physical characteristic is compatible withsaid first color, whereby development of the color product is either:(a) halted if a physical characteristic is not compatible with saidfirst color, or a warning is issued via a user interface if a physicalcharacteristic is not compatible with said first color.
 53. The systemof claim 52, further comprising a communication network wherein at leasttwo color product development specialists communicate said firstdevelopment information using said communication network.
 54. The systemof claim 53, wherein said communicated first development informationincludes a pointer to said first development information.
 55. The systemof claim 52, wherein said received first color information is in a firstformat.
 56. The system of claim 52, wherein at least one of saidcharacteristics is a color characteristic.
 57. The system of claim 56,wherein said development information further includes said colorcharacteristic stored in a plurality of formats.
 58. The system of claim57, wherein said plurality of formats comprise at least one of visualspectral data, CIEXYZ, CIELAB, CIELUV, CIEUVW, color space, chromaticitycoordinates xy, u′v′ and uv, computer graphics triplets including RGB,CMYK, HLS, HIS, HSV and HVC, Munsell notation, Swedish Natural ColorSystem notation, ColorCurve notation, RAL notation, Pantone colornumber, DIC color number, Color Marketing Group color name, and ColorAssociation of the United States color name.
 59. The system of claim 52,wherein said first color information is translated from a first formatto a second format.
 60. The system of claim 59, further comprising: acommunication network wherein at least two color product developmentspecialists communicate said first color development information usingsaid communication network; and said first development information beingin a third format in response to at least one characteristiccorresponding to at least one of said at least two color productdevelopment specialists, and wherein said characteristic is acharacteristic of a device used by at least one of said at least twocolor product development specialists to generate a visibly perceptiblerepresentation of said first color.
 61. The system of claim 60, whereinsaid third format is said first format.
 62. The system of claim 52,further comprising a fifth software facility for generating a visiblyperceptible representation of said first color in response to said firstcolor information.
 63. The system of claim 52, wherein saidcharacteristics include at least one substrate characteristic.
 64. Themethod of claim 63, wherein said characteristics include an ability ofsaid color product to resist at least one of water, solvent, acid,alkali, temperature, humidity, abrasion, crocking, bending, light, andultraviolet radiation.
 65. The system of claim 64, further comprising afifth software facility for generating a visibly perceptiblerepresentation of said first color in response to said at least onesubstrate characteristic.
 66. The system of claim 52, further comprisinga sixth software facility for printing said color product using saidfirst color.
 67. The system of claim 66, wherein said sixth softwarefacility provides for at least one of flexographic printing, offsetprinting, and gravure printing methods.
 68. The system of claim 52,wherein said third software facility further provides for using a colormeasuring device.
 69. The system of claim 68, wherein said colormeasuring device is at least one of a spectrocolorimeter, aspectrodensitometer, a calorimeter, and a spectrophotometer.
 70. Thesystem of claim 52, wherein said second software facility furtherprovides for selecting said first color information from a plurality ofretrievable samples located in at least one electronic color library.71. The system of claim 70, wherein said at least one electronic colorlibrary is set forth on at least one site processor.
 72. The system ofclaim 52, further comprising a global communication network forcommunicating said first color information.
 73. The system of claim 72,wherein said global communication network is the Internet.
 74. Thesystem of claim 52, further comprising a direct dial-up connection forcommunicating said first color information.
 75. The system of claim 52,further comprising access to said database to at least two color productdevelopment specialists.
 76. The system of claim 75, wherein said atleast two color product development specialists include at least one ofa customer, a designer, a color separator, a printer, and an inkmanufacturer.
 77. The system of claim 75, wherein said databasecomprises data entry display screens enabling said at least two colorproduct development specialists to enter their respective contributionsto said development of said color product.
 78. The system of claim 77,wherein said data entry display screens provide choices in to said colorproduct development specialists in response to said respectivecontributions to said development of said color product.
 79. The systemof claim 78, wherein at least one of said first, second, third andfourth software facility notifies said color product developmentspecialists to stop development of said color product in response tosaid respective contributions to said development of said color product.80. The system of claim 79, wherein said at least one of said first,second, third and fourth software facility notifies said color productdevelopment specialists to revise said development of said color productin response to said respective contributions to said development of saidcolor product.
 81. The system of claim 77, wherein said data entrydisplay screens provide choices to said color product developmentspecialists in response to said compatibility of at least one physicalcharacteristic with said first color.
 82. The system of claim 81,wherein said at least one of said first, second, third and fourthsoftware facility notifies said color product development specialists torevise said development of said color product in response to saidcompatibility of said at least one physical characteristic with saidcolor.